Va. makes top ten wine destinations

Yes, Virginia – there really is a wine country, and according to this month’s Wine Enthusiast magazine, Virginia has been named one of the 10 best wine travel destinations for 2012.

Virginia was listed as only one of three domestic wine regions that are considered an ideal place for wine lovers to visit in 2012, along with regions in Italy, New Zealand, Spain, Hungary, Germany, France, Chile and two in California.

The article cites Virginia’s rich history, natural beauty and winemakers as some of the many reasons why Virginia is a hot wine travel destination.

As evidence of the growing popularity of Virginia wine country’s popularity, Wine Enthusiast Magazine references Virginia’s historically significant vineyards and picturesque pastoral landscapes, as well as, “affable winemakers that set Virginia apart as an excellent wine destination on the East Coast.”

But it is the president and CEO of the Virginia Tourism Corporation, Alisa Bailey’s comments, that really makes an excellent case for visiting the wineries of Virginia. She states, “Where else in the world can you enjoy bluegrass music at a winery, kayak to a winery, taste local wines at a national park, sip local wines at a National Historic Landmark or bike from winery to winery? All those experiences are found in Virginia.”

One of my favorite Virginia vineyards to visit is the Barboursville Winery (17655 Winery Road Barboursville, VA 22923), located near Charlotte, Virginia, as much for the historical significance as for the wine. The original plans for the estate were drawn up by Thomas Jefferson and are only one of three residences he designed for his friends. In addition to a tasting room (open daily), there is also a first class restaurant, a charming inn and a wine museum that chronicles the history of the vineyard. If you go, definitely try the 2008 Barboursville Cabernet Franc Reserve. Rumor has it that it is the “house” wine at the Inn at Little Washington, whose high standards are definitely recognized in this wine, where lovely flavors of red cherries, plum and notes of clove drape the tongue in layers. The finish is long and soft and leaves an impression of baked cherries on the end. $25

Another favorite destination located in the heart of Virginia wine country is the Prince Michel Vineyard and Winery in Leon, VA. It is home to both Prince Michel and Rapidan River wines. In addition to award winning wines, Prince Michel offers luxury accommodations, a first-class restaurant and facilities for private tastings and events, including weddings and corporate retreats. If you go, don’t miss the opportunity to try the 2008 Prince Michel Barrel Select Chardonnay. The extended sur lee aging in barrels lends a characteristic note of butterscotch to the apple and nectarine flavors. The slightly creamy mouthfeel has just the right touch of acidity to keep the finish clean and crisp. $18

Dennis Horton is considered one of the pioneers of the modern Virginia wine industry. His eponymous winery, Horton Vineyards in Gordonsville, VA produces some of the best wines in the region. My personal longtime favorite is the 2008 Horton Vineyard Viognier, a white varietal, originally thought to hail from the Rhone Valley in France. This domestic version boasts a striking nose featuring scents of white flowers, tropical fruit and white peaches. Flavors of peach, pineapple, vanilla and toasty oak are remarkably focused on the palate. The crisp acidity keeps the wine balanced and the finish refreshing. $20